Present; S Greenhalgh (Vice Chair), P Brown, Y Guest, S Harris, D Knight, G Lucas, K Reed and I Wright (Parish Councillors). Steve Altria (Clerk). SCClr D Fothergill. Three members of the public attended.
17/216. Chairs Welcome. The Vice Chairman in the Chairman's absence chaired the meeting and welcomed all.
17/217. Public Speaking. No member of the public asked to speak.
17/218. Apologies. PCllrs A Birch and C Sampson had sent their apologies and their reasons given were accepted. S Hutchings (Chair). TDBCllr D Durdan.
17/219. Declarations of Interest. (1) Declarations of Individual Members. None. (2) SH had submitted a dispensation request to enable all Councillors to take part in the discussions on the precept. Action. The PC granted the dispensation to enable all Councillors to participate in the precept determination discussions at this meeting and at the next meeting on 8th January.
(1) After a 3 yearly Ofsted Inspection SCC had been advised that the authority had made 'significant progress' in its Children's Services. The formal announcement will be made at the end of Jan 18.
(2) Adult Social Care: As part of the comprehensive 'Promoting Independence' strategy for Adult Social Care comprehensive advise can be found by calling 0300 123 2224 or emailing adults@somerset.gov.uk . Alternatively people can call into one of our drop in centre's details of which can be found at www.somerset.gov.uk/dropin or by visiting https://www.somersetchoices.org.uk/ to see the many options.
(3) SCC has a Teacher Training facility run in conjunction with Uni of Worcester which provides training for 70. It has been judged as 'outstanding' by Ofsted and they would like it to be increased to 160 places.
(4) Somerset has 3 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. £1.9m has been granted to the Quantocks AONB by the Heritage Lottery fund to launch and manage the Inspire live and learn project over the period 2020-2024.
(5) SCC is responsible for Public Health. The Somerset Director of Health has had a report entitled "End of Life" published. DF offered a short presentation on a future occasion; whatever you take out of it the vast majority of people do not discuss with their relatives how they wish to be dealt with when it comes to the end of their life. The message is 'Do talk to your relatives'.
(6) Hyde Lane "Safe Route to School" proposed footpath is to proceed in three sections, the first section to the MWay Bridge will be provided by Linden Homes, the second section from MWay bridge to short of Hyde Lane Cottages by SCC and a new path alongside and behind the cottages will be provided by Persimmon and Redrow "as soon as possible". DF advised "the monies there, the lands there and it just a matter of getting on with it now" . Linden homes will also provide new bridge parapets. The path agreed will not be lit (or a cycleway) but SCC will seek to vary it later.
and then the question of where to get the money will be examined. KR asked if the culvert under the road can be cleared in the meantime. DF advised these had all been looked at and it had been agreed that they would be. DK informed DF that someone when cutting hedges along Ham Lane had allowed the ditches to be filled up with the cutting. DF suggested that the Clerk report this to the Internal Drainage Board.
Action. The Clerk to advise the IDB.
(8) Langaller Road. GL asked what the orange markings either side of the road that appeared on the 10th Sept are. DF advised he did not know but would make enquiries of Highways.
(9) SWH noted that there was Fly Tipping of materials taking place in a field off Long Lane (RofW10/29) Langaller.
As 'no change of use' had been obtained by the land owner this was a matter for planning enforcement.
Action. The Clerk to report flytipping to TDBC enforcement.
17/221. Minutes of the 6th November Mtg. (These had been previously circulated to Cllrs). The minutes of the meeting were agreed without any amendments being made. These were then signed and dated by the Chair as an accurate record of the meeting.
17/222. Matters arising from the minutes of the 6th November Mtg.
KR asked if the landowner had advised regarding allotment lease renewal. The Clerk advised he had yet to his knowledge but as the 5 years had expired a lease renewal negotiation was required. He referred KR to SH.
17/198 (11) North End Sewerage Pumping Station. The Clerk advised that he had written to Wessex Water twice asking when the station was installed adjacent to Withy Tree Cottage but had yet to get a reply. IW and SG suggested it was about 20/25 years ago.
16/58. Over grown vegetation on TDBC owned Land in front of 2-32 Crufts Meadow. The Clerk reported that he had re-inspected the area following his last visit on the 31st August and had found that TDBC had apart from shutting the manhole had not made progress on any of the 8 other improvements agreed at a site meeting held on 17th May. As a result he will report again to TDBC the dangerous tree stump that presents a formidable trip hazard. The Clerk reported that the other issues are that the grass was much longer than on other estate verges suggesting that Crufts is still not on the TDBC scheduled cutting programme, Briars had not been cut back, that also appears to be the prospect of a "gap" appearing between the Larkfleet estate path by the canal and the existing footpath.
Action. The Clerk to report the lack of progress and brief CS.
17/125 Dog Bins. SCC has provided a highways map of Charlton Road. The Chairman would examine and identify a site on the Highway land. Alternatively the bin will be sited somewhere else in the Parish.
Action. The Chairman and KR to identify a site, the Clerk to await Chairman's advices and then ask DLO to install.
17/156 (2) Planning Enforcement. The Clerk confirmed that he had received an update on two cases.
At Charlton Lane E 0014 14 17 Alleged unauthorised dev and caravans being used for permanent residential occupation. TDBC had served a Planning Contravention Notice (PCN) on Monday 2nd October 2017. As a result TDBC had advised on 20th November that the only clear breech on the land is the storage of a touring caravan and that it had been agreed this would be removed within 14 days.
At Durston E0015 16 17. Unauthorised stationing of two occupied static caravans on land adjacent to the A361. TDBC also advised on the 20th November that the mobile home does not amount to development requiring planning permission and is used ancillary to the main use on the land.
17/204. Strategic Housing land availability assessment (SHLAA). The Clerk reported that he had written to TDBC (Tim Burton) asking that the field at Langaller be removed from the plan as a possible site for future development (beyond the existing plan period).
Responded that's all well and good but why do they have a category of "not developable" as then they are making a planning judgement and it seems that TDBC want this site in their back pocket in case their 5 year supply fails.
Action. The Clerk was asked to respond to TDBC and to seek Dist Cllrs support for the green wedge extension and for a reassessment of this site in the next SHLAA as not developable.
17/207. Defibulator's. The Clerk advised he had spent a morning with Lawrence Rayment of Heartstart Somerset inspecting the three telephone boxes to identify any works required ahead of fitting the defibrillators and their cabinets. All three backboards were found to require replacing and the Chair had offered to undertake this subject to the PC meeting material costs (plywood, wood stain and bolts). This was agreed. The Clerk confirmed he had seen Heartstart Somerset supplier's website and ascertained that their charge to the PC is lower. KR advised that the Hospital had recommended Heartstart Somerset as they are the best linking to the Ambulance Service.
Action. Clerk to get quotes for Installation/Electrician, to order equipment. Chair to replace the backboards.
The Clerk advised that he had yet to write to the RoW Officer at SCC who is to retire at Christmas thanking her for her good service but that he would before she leaves. (note from Clerk since done). At the last meeting it had been reported that DWHomes had cut the hedges in the path leading from Hyde lane to the Rec Park and left the cuttings on the footpath in need of picking up. As a result the Chair and himself had been along to examine only to find that they had since been removed. As a result no action was taken.
Wortheys Farm, Worthy Lane, Creech St Michael. Application for a prior notification for the replacement of extension of an agricultural building for the storage of feed and machinery.
Coalharbour House, White Street, Ham, Creech St Michael. Various internal alterations.
Hillview Barn, Adsborough. Erection of an agricultural bdg with installation of solar pv panels.
Unit 20 Creech Mill CSM. Erection of an extension to existing Unit.
Action. As decision 0035 had already been made and communicated by TDBC the Clerk was asked to establish why.
Commercial buildings for Class B1/B8 usage, with amenities. The Clerk to report that he has registered a concern with Planners about the impact of additional traffic this application in West Monkton will have within CSM.
(7.3) App 14/17/0020 Walford Cross. Erection of 11 No. light industrial units (2 No. buildings) for Class B1/B8 usage. The Clerk reported that in response to the additional professional representations the applicant has made to TDBC he has restated the PC views, highlighted the concern over road safety and in response to the applicants agent's suggestion that SCC reline the Walford Cross to make it safer suggested that if so it should be funded by the applicant. This will be heard by TDBC Planners at their meeting today, 6th Dec. SCC Highways have supported conditionally as traffic volumes are less now than in 2006.
(7.4) App 14/17/0033 Development off Langaller Road of 200 houses by Gladman's. Two requests had been made asking if the PC would request asking Persimmon and Redrow to write a letter against the development. IW suggested as Gladman's was not the developers we proceed with caution at this stage. DF advised at the appeals stage new objections cannot be raised. It was agreed to write. It was also agreed to write to Ruishton PC seeking their support. LG asked if some of the PC would speak at the TDBC Planning Cttee (likely to be Jan 10th or 31st or Feb 28th) and it was agreed that the Clerk would circulate a list of subjects to be covered for individual PCllrs to decide and notify LG. LG advised that some PCllrs had yet to submit their formal objections to TDBC and asked that they do.
The Clerk also advised that he had submitted an application for ACV status for the field of Langaller Road. TDBC had asked for details of recreational use beyond the walking and dog exercising uses he was already aware of. Parishioner Lynn Gates (LG) advised the PC that she and her family had regularly picnicked there as had other families.
Action. Clerk to write to Persimmon, Redrow and Ruishton PC asking for support and circulate PCllrs subject topics.
PCllrs to volunteer to speak and write in objection.
(7.5). Planning - CSM. Neighbourhood Plan. The CSM NH Panel meeting of the 16th Nov draft mins were separately circulated. Following amendment to take on board PCllrs requests for changes on draft v4 Plan (including the development of a "green wedge" policy) and the improvements suggested by TDBC (AR) a revised draft (v5) Neighbourhood Plan had been circulated to PCllrs separately earlier that day. The public and statutory consultation (Reg 14 Consultation) would start this Friday 8th Dec for a 2 month period (ending 2nd Feb). Displays manned by the NH Plan Panel would be held in the village Hall Cttee Room this Friday 8th from 2pm to 6pm and on Saturday 9.30am to noon. Following that unmanned displays would be placed in the Village Hall entrance and Baptist Church Hall for two months. Regular posts would be made to the village facebook site including daily this week as this had over 1000 friends. All maps, the draft plan and a feedback form are also available to view or download from the village website www.creechstmichael.net/NHP/ . PCllrs were asked to notify the Clerk of any "must have changes" this week otherwise comments made will be included along with other outcomes for consideration for v6 in February. It was agreed to request two changes. PB asked that the Project list include a sentence on the opening of a link between Hyde Lane and the Relief Road "Provision of access from Hyde Lane to WMRR when satisfactory traffic management measures are in place in Hyde Lane as part of the village traffic management plan" and IW asked that Map 10 have a line added to the text to the effect that "it's the PC aim to secure ACV status for the whole of the Green Wedge". It was also agreed to pay WYG £750 for the preparations of maps and to meet the costs of laminating consultation displays.
PG advised he and the Clerk had met a SCC Transport Planner in an effort to get traffic volume data in the Village; hopefully in the New Year we will get data to support what we are saying regarding speeding and safety.
KR had arranged for Pictures to have been taken for later inclusion in the plan. A meeting had been held to select which to use and this ha identified the need for additional pictures highlighting the difficulties the plan refers to.
TDBC Planners had given the go ahead for the Local Development Order for the Nexus strategic employment site and that this would be considered at the full Council meeting on 12th Dec. The site originally thought to be 25hacres has now been measured as 17.3hacres and this reduces the number of jobs from 3-4,000 proportionately.
Action. The Clerk to ask WYG to make two requested changes to the draft plan ahead of Reg 14 consultation.
(1) Cheque drawn since last meeting . Cheque no 262 amount £39.62 payable to B Gas for Pavilion Electricity supply 7th Oct-7th Nov 2017.
SR Altria (Clerks Nov Expenses) £222.82, Bibby Factors Bristol Ltd (Rec Park 3d Security 30.10.17-26.11.17) £216.00, WYG Env Planning Trans Ltd (NH Plan consultancy 16.10.17-16.11.17) £3,600.00, CSM Village Hall (Hire of VHall July-Sept 17) £93.50, Soc of Local Council Clerks	(2018 Membership) £147.00, Assoc of Loc Council Clerks (2017/18 Membership) £50.00, Heartstart Somerset (3 BT Spec Class 2 AED Cabinets) £3,735.00.
Creech Cougars (Pitch Sept/Oct Fees) £120.00, Ruishton FC (Pitch Sept/Oct Fees) £100.00, Tone Youth FC (Pitch Fees 1st/7th/8th/14th/15thx2 Oct) £120.00 and South West Lottery (Lottery proceeds Nov) £10.00.
(4) Authority to make payments as accounts received.
PIP items) and PIP items (as authorised October PC mtg and item 17/225).
(5) Larkfleet Grant Fund. The Clerk had examined their criteria for applications and recognising that a requirement of bidders is to have a Equalities and H&S Policies in place as well as the existing Safeguarding Policy (along with review dates) he had written these and circulated to PCllrs ahead of the meeting. These were agreed with an amendment to the Safeguarding Policy. As PIP had requested that a bid should be submitted for new gazebos and tables and this was agreed. IF unsuccessful in the bid it was agreed PIP can then purchase these. DK highlighted that PIP were currently hiring a marquee and that over three years would get the money back.
Action AB to provide the Clerk with details and the Clerk to submit a bid to Larkfleet in January.
(6) Budget/Precept 2018/19. To discuss draft budget/precept (papers separately circulated).
The Clerk circulated a draft budget and precept for the 2018/19 year. He advised that he was not necessarily looking for immediate reactions but it would be on the Jan agenda for decision. In the meantime the budget should be scrutinised and questions asked. The budget was introduced and changes between years highlighted. The draft suggested that both the draw on balances and precept needed to increase (following last year's no increase). The draft budget had been reviewed by the Finance Sub Ctte. He highlighted that it was important to identify as aspirations for consideration as possible so Cllrs aims for the year are considered (including any Neighbourhood Plan Community Actions to be taken forward) in the budget as there was unlikely to be finance available otherwise. SG asked for suggestions of how money can be saved. It was noted that the Council Tax Support Grant had now been completely withdrawn by TDBC, that the rec field income will reduce whilst costs are generally increasing and that increased play equipment maintenance, commencing the new pavilion project, addressing the former TME site works, enhancing facilities in the Park, the cost of emptying the increased number of Dog Bins and the running of a Youth Club (see item 17/229 below) all are additional costs. That the Neighbourhood Plan could be financed from CIL and new play equipment from S105 monies received for that purpose.
Action. PCllrs to review draft budget and identify savings, any new projects and to put questions to the Clerk.
17/225. Party in the Park 14th July 2018 (SG,CS,DK,YG,AB) To report on PIP18 and projects/grants.
SG advised that arrangements for PIP18 were well in hand with vendors booked, tickets ordered and bands being considered. The Safety Advising Group would be attended and SG and CS will be licensees. The event will remain free during the day time with evening tickets (adults) priced at £5 and teens aged 14-17 at £3.
On 19th Jan is Senior Citizens fish and chip supper. AB had asked for support and volunteers should let him know.
17/226. Rec Park. (1) Site Levelling/Fencing Work. SG reported that the site levelling work had commenced and the site would be grassed over once complete. (2) Rec Park Improvements. SG advised that a meeting was being scheduled to take place shortly to consider the many suggestions and how best to take the pavilion replacement project forward. Further ideas are welcome and the further Neighbourhood Plan consultation will contain suggestions.
(3) Safety Inspection Works. SH had advised that the caretaker is working through some of the outstanding items. The Clerk drew attention to the need to address the matting underneath too.
(4) Pitch rolling. A quote from the DLO was considered and agreed. It was also agreed to add a roll into the grass maintenance contract in place with the DLO as the pitch need an annual roll.
(1) SG advised that the verge banks just beyond the Hyde Lane Corner are collapsing again on left hand side.
(2) IW advised that whilst walking on the pavement opp the shop a car wing mirror had hit him on the elbow and this highlighted the need to address the safety issues that exist.
(3) Hollingsworth Park Estate speed calming. PC/AB/Clerk along with a resident had attended a site meeting held on 14th November with SCC Highways DM and AJ). Highways had acknowledged that there is a problem with drivers breaking too late when descending the MWay Bridge and therefore travelling too fast at the road crossing point on the corner outside the Rec Park. The speed limit will be extended out to address this. Highways are also to extend the parapet to the bridge to ensure vehicles cannot roll down onto the motorway embankment. Highways had also asked to learn what speed calming measures PCllrs would like to see and had sent some suggestions. It was agreed to read through these and to make a decision at the next meeting. DF highlighted that speed humps are not liked and the Clerk highlighted that the NH Plan consultation had identified Village Gateways as preferable.
(4) A358/A303 Duelling. The Clerk explained that Highways England Ltd have taken the decision that following further review, to consult again on the whole route from early 2018. HE intend to present a number of options for consideration and have widened the scope of the consultation to the whole route meaning that they need more time to work on the consultation and to prepare.
The Clerk advised that the consequence of this is that the scheme will now, given the timing of this consultation and "reconsideration of the whole route", mean H.E will find it virtually impossible to complete all necessary stages in time to put a "spade in the ground" by their given deadline of 2020. There is likely now to be a year's delay in the A358 Expressway programme (which was already over stretched financially due to the cost of the tunnel at Stonehenge) as a result of the re-consultation and this will push the project's construction into the period of the Government's next Road Investment Strategy, 2020-2025.
(5) M5 J25, Nexus Employment Park and Creech Castle Junction. At the TDBC Planning Mtg it was stated that HE have removed their "hold" on the Motorway Junction and Nexus schemes so SCC and TDBC can proceed with these schemes if they decide to. Given the A358 duelling delays this would mean that the traffic (including the heavy Lorry's) wanting to access Nexus would have to travel through Ruishton or use the Motorway junction; thereby increasing the likelihood of rat running through CSM. SCC Highways will attend the PC Jan meeting to explain their proposals for improving the Creech Castle Junction.
17/228. Footpaths/RofW. There was no formal report presented this month. FA'C and PB had raised a "missing Link" on the approach to canal bridge 26 at the bottom end of Ryesland way. The slope is a mess and asked whether this could be improved . SCC RofW have advised that it is not a RofW. If improved it would negate the need to cross the canal bridge. The Clerk asked if anyone knew who owned the land. IW offered to speak to the canal ranger.
17/229. Youth Club. CS, KR, Judith Hodge and the Clerk had met with Rich Hedger (Youth Investment fund Youth Worker) from the Somerset Rural Youth Project on 9th November to explore the setting up of a youth club for teenagers running one night a week in CSM. A note of the meeting had been circulated and details of costing's requested. It is likely SRYP would meet setup costs but the PC would get ongoing running costs. It was noted that the Children Centre was no longer available as a possible venue and that the VHall was fully booked weekday evenings. CS suggested the old engine should be used as it could be made a dedicated space and it facilitated Rec Park use. JH offered that the Creech News would contribute to building adaptations costs. The Clerk suggested PIP may wish to contribute too. It was noted that as there are ongoing commissioning, management and premises issues associated with a youth club some form of body (either external or a PC panel) would need to be established to handle these.
17/230. Annual Parish Meeting April 27th Friday 2018. PCllrs considered Speakers and suggested that Wessex Water, Land Drainage and Sports England be invited. Further speakers to be identified and notified to the Clerk.
17/231. Equalities, Safeguarding and H&S Policies.
These three policies had been circulated previously. The H&S and Equality Policies were adopted. The Safeguarding Policy which already existed was reviewed and a change made before being agreed. It was agreed to review all three the policies annually in future at the Nov meeting.
17/232. Creech St Michael Website. The Clerk advised that a Parishioner had suggested that the website needed to be kept more up-to-date and to have a more modern appearance. This would need a team of volunteers establishing or someone being paid to obtain and upload content whilst the rewrite of the website would involve a cost. BB said the site was old fashioned and highlighted that the bus timetable shown is 2014. She appreciated it is maintained on a voluntary basis but with people new moving in the first thing they do is check the website. KR agreed to put in an appeal for volunteers in the next edition of the Creech News. BB asked if the News could also show PCllrs names and email addresses.
17/234. Matters to be carried forward. The next meeting agenda is to be kept to urgent items to provide time to fully discuss the 2018/19 Budget and to receive the Creech Castle Junction presentation.
The meeting was closed at 9.11pm.
The next scheduled Parish Council meeting will be held at 7pm on Monday January 8th and February 5th 2018.


text:
#---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
# Copyright (c) Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
# Licensed under the MIT License. See License.txt in the project root for license information.
#---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

import os
import platform
import logging
from logging.handlers import RotatingFileHandler

import colorama

AZ_LOGFILE_NAME = 'az.log'
DEFAULT_LOG_DIR = os.path.expanduser(os.path.join('~', '.azure', 'logs'))

ENABLE_LOG_FILE = os.environ.get('AZURE_CLI_ENABLE_LOG_FILE')
LOG_DIR = os.environ.get('AZURE_CLI_LOG_DIR')

CONSOLE_LOG_CONFIGS = [
    # (default)
    {
        'az': logging.WARNING,
        'root': logging.CRITICAL,
    },
    # --verbose
    {
        'az': logging.INFO,
        'root': logging.CRITICAL,
    },
    # --debug
    {
        'az': logging.DEBUG,
        'root': logging.DEBUG,
    }]

# Formats for console logging if coloring is enabled or not.
# Show the level name if coloring is disabled (e.g. INFO).
# Also, Root logger should show the logger name.
CONSOLE_LOG_FORMAT = {
    'az': {
        True: '%(message)s',
        False: '%(levelname)s: %(message)s',
    },
    'root': {
        True: '%(name)s : %(message)s',
        False: '%(levelname)s: %(name)s : %(message)s',
    }
}

def _determine_verbose_level(argv):
    # Get verbose level by reading the arguments.
    # Remove any consumed args.
    verbose_level = 0
    i = 0
    while i < len(argv):
        arg = argv[i]
        if arg in ['--verbose']:
            verbose_level += 1
            argv.pop(i)
        elif arg in ['--debug']:
            verbose_level += 2
            argv.pop(i)
        else:
            i += 1
    # Use max verbose level if too much verbosity specified.
    return verbose_level if verbose_level < len(CONSOLE_LOG_CONFIGS) else len(CONSOLE_LOG_CONFIGS)-1

def _color_wrapper(color_marker):
    def wrap_msg_with_color(msg):
        return color_marker + msg + colorama.Style.RESET_ALL
    return wrap_msg_with_color

class CustomStreamHandler(logging.StreamHandler):
    COLOR_MAP = {
        logging.CRITICAL: _color_wrapper(colorama.Fore.RED),
        logging.ERROR: _color_wrapper(colorama.Fore.RED),
        logging.WARNING: _color_wrapper(colorama.Fore.YELLOW),
        logging.INFO: _color_wrapper(colorama.Fore.GREEN),
        logging.DEBUG: _color_wrapper(colorama.Fore.CYAN),
    }

    def _should_enable_color(self):
        try:
            # Color if tty stream available
            if self.stream.isatty():
                return True
        except AttributeError:
            pass

        return False

    def __init__(self, log_level_config, log_format):
        logging.StreamHandler.__init__(self)
        self.setLevel(log_level_config)
        if platform.system() == 'Windows':
            self.stream = colorama.AnsiToWin32(self.stream).stream
        self.enable_color = self._should_enable_color()
        self.setFormatter(logging.Formatter(log_format[self.enable_color]))

    def format(self, record):
        msg = logging.StreamHandler.format(self, record)
        if self.enable_color:
            try:
                msg = self.COLOR_MAP[record.levelno](msg)
            except KeyError:
                pass
        return msg

def _init_console_handlers(root_logger, az_logger, log_level_config):
    root_logger.addHandler(CustomStreamHandler(log_level_config['root'],
                                               CONSOLE_LOG_FORMAT['root']))
    az_logger.addHandler(CustomStreamHandler(log_level_config['az'],
                                             CONSOLE_LOG_FORMAT['az']))

def _get_log_file_path():
    log_dir = LOG_DIR or DEFAULT_LOG_DIR
    if not os.path.isdir(log_dir):
        os.makedirs(log_dir)
    return os.path.join(log_dir, AZ_LOGFILE_NAME)

def _init_logfile_handlers(root_logger, az_logger):
    if not ENABLE_LOG_FILE:
        return
    log_file_path = _get_log_file_path()
    logfile_handler = RotatingFileHandler(log_file_path, maxBytes=10*1024*1024, backupCount=5)
    lfmt = logging.Formatter('%(process)d : %(asctime)s : %(levelname)s : %(name)s : %(message)s')
    logfile_handler.setFormatter(lfmt)
    logfile_handler.setLevel(logging.DEBUG)
    root_logger.addHandler(logfile_handler)
    az_logger.addHandler(logfile_handler)

def configure_logging(argv):
    verbose_level = _determine_verbose_level(argv)
    log_level_config = CONSOLE_LOG_CONFIGS[verbose_level]

    root_logger = logging.getLogger()
    az_logger = logging.getLogger('az')
    # Set the levels of the loggers to lowest level.
    # Handlers can override by choosing a higher level.
    root_logger.setLevel(logging.DEBUG)
    az_logger.setLevel(logging.DEBUG)
    az_logger.propagate = False

    if len(root_logger.handlers) and len(az_logger.handlers):
        # loggers already configured
        return
    _init_console_handlers(root_logger, az_logger, log_level_config)
    _init_logfile_handlers(root_logger, az_logger)

def get_az_logger(module_name=None):
    return logging.getLogger('az.' + module_name if module_name else 'az')

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
infobank
az egyszülőkért
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Mr. & Ms. YC Nominees Announced
Each year, York College faculty and staff recognize eight students to be candidates for the Mr. and Ms. YC awards. These seniors are nominated based on their positive contributions across campus and their commitment to the mission, purpose and core values of York College.
Please join us in congratulating the following 2020 nominees: Carter Price, Christian Eggar, Cameron Merrill, Cole Satterfield, Hannah Anderson, Olivia Nabb, Kendall Fike, and Lydia Kirchhoff.
The Mr. & Ms. YC awards will be announced Monday, April 20th.
Mr. YC Nominees
Carter Price
Carter is a biology major from Rapid City, South Dakota. During his time at YC, Carter has been involved with the track and field program and has been named as a two-time NAIA All-American as well as First Team All-Conference and YC Male Athlete of the Year in 2019. Carter has served as the President of the Concert Choir and received the WOW Award. Most recently served as the Ignite Excellence Chairperson for Student Government. Carter reflects on his time at YC, "My favorite memories at York College are the ones I took for granted, the meals at the Caf' sitting around the table with my friends, joking around before class, and game nights with all my friends." Carter plans to attend medical school after graduation.
Christian Eggar
Christian is a biblical studies major from Miles City, Montana. While at YC, Christian participated in the Concert Choir, Celebration Singers, Songfest, and York Campus Ministries. He served as President of the Koinonia social club and was a resident assistant for Residence Life. Christian was also awarded the YC Spirit Award as a part of the Cheer Team. He was named to the Dean's List and was Homecoming Court nominee in 2019. Christian says, "I would like to thank the Bible Department and all my professors for instilling in me the want to learn and to grow spiritually." After graduating, Christian plans to seek employment opportunities in the ministry field as a pulpit or youth minister.
Cameron Merrill
Cameron is a biblical studies major from Edmond, Oklahoma. Cameron has served as the chaplain and captain of the men's soccer team for the past four years and was awarded the KCAC Champions of Character award. Cameron also participated in York Campus Ministries as an intern; Kyodai social club as treasurer; Student Government as vice president and inter-club council liaison; Concert Choir as vice president; and Residence Life as an assistant resident director. He also served as a Genesis (New Student Orientation) group leader and a counselor at the Presidential Leadership Institute. He is a part of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a member of Celebration Singers, and a two-time Songfest Host. Cameron was named to the Dean's List and also represented YC as a keynote speaker at the New England Lectureship. Cameron says, "I thank the Lord for changing my heart at YC, my family for pushing me and supporting me in everything I do and my mentors for guiding me each step of the way." Upon graduating, Cameron plans to work in Christian education as a Bible teacher and soccer coach.
Cole Satterfield
Cole is a sports management, business administration and accounting major from Broomfield, Colorado. Cole is a member of the baseball team and was honored as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete as well as being named to the KCAC Student-Athlete Leadership Team. He served as president of the Professional Business Leaders chapter and placed seventh in the PBL National Conference competition. He was a resident assistant for Residence Life, Genesis group leader, traveling camp counselor, and counselor at the Presidential Leadership Institute. Cole is a member of the Campus PR Squad, Kyodai social club, and the Student Activities Board. He was named to the Dean's List and was nominated to the 2019 Homecoming Court. He is also a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society. Reflecting on his time at YC, Cole says, "My favorite memory at York College has to be either making a regional tournament for baseball last year or traveling Europe on Study Abroad." Cole's post-graduation plans are to spend part of the summer as an Assistant/Pitching Coach for the SoCal Blue Sox in California. After that, he will begin working in the YC admissions office as an enrollment counselor and working with the baseball program as a coach in the fall.
Ms. YC Nominees
Hannah Anderson
Hannah is a history major with a theatre minor from York, Nebraska. Hannah served as the secretary and soprano section leader of the Concert Choir and was awarded Outstanding New Female in 2017. She was also awarded Best Actress in a One-Act Play in 2018 and Best Actress in 2019; she shared the Best Supporting Actress in 2019 and named Best Assistant Director in 2019 for her involvement in the theatre department. Hannah also served in various roles for Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Society as the secretary, businesswoman, and president. She was nominated to the 2019 Homecoming Court, named on the Dean's List as well as honored as a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society. Hannah also served as the treasurer of Omega Phi social club, a member of York Campus Ministries and as a counselor for the Presidential Leadership Institute. Hannah says, "I love that YC is a place where each person has a chance to show and receive love." Hannah plans on working in York for the next year and is looking into graduate school opportunities.
Kendall Fike
Kendall is a biblical studies major from Ada, Oklahoma. While at YC, Kendall served as the captain of the women's basketball team and was named a KCAC Scholar-Athlete. She also served as an intern for York Campus Ministries, a resident assistant for Residence Life, president of Theta Psi social club and in various roles for the Student Government. She was a member of the Professional Business Leaders chapter and named to the Dean's List. Kendall says, "I have loved meeting new people and learning along the way the past four years." After graduating Kendall plans to seek opportunities in ministry and the mission field.
Lydia Kirchhoff
Lydia is an elementary education major from Deshler, Nebraska. Lydia served as the alto section leader in the Concert Choir and was awarded the Outstanding Female Singer in 2019. Lydia served as the vice president of the Student Government, a resident assistant for Residence Life and as a women's basketball manager. She is a member of Celebration Singers and Beta Beta Sigma social club. Lydia was named to the Dean's List and nominated to the 2019 Homecoming Court. Lydia also participated in Genesis as a group leader and Presidential Leadership Institute as a counselor. Lydia reflects on her time, "All of my favorite memories at York College have something to do with the individuals that make YC what it is, from the late nights of fun in Thomas and Kiplinger dorms to having classes with some of the best professors and friends, to supporting each other in sporting and theatrical events, and to traveling around the world with each other. Thank you, YC." After YC, Lydia plans to teach at the elementary level.
Olivia Nabb
Olivia, a theatre communication major from Lincoln, Nebraska, served as the vice president of the Concert Choir, an intern for York Campus Ministries, communications officer for Student Government and president of Beta Beta Sigma social club. She was awarded Best Actress in 2017 for her involvement in the theatre department and is a member of Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Society. She was a member of Celebration Singers and a Songfest Hostess. Olivia was named to the Dean's List and nominated to the 2019 Homecoming Court. Olivia says, "I'm blessed to be given the opportunity of transformation from my freshman year to now. There are so many people who have never given up on me no matter how many times I've made a mistake. I believe that is a learning environment at its finest." Olivia plans on seeking employment opportunities in Nebraska.


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Home 2018, Historic District CommissionHistoric District Commission Meeting Minutes – April 4, 2018
Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes – April 4, 2018
May 3, 2018| 2018, Historic District Commission| jmccann
Chairwoman Alexa Silver called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. In attendance were Commission members Owen Bailey, Ted Gallo, Nancy McGuire and Alice Ritchie, Kees de Mooy (Zoning Administrator), Jennifer Mulligan (Town Clerk) and guests.
Ms. Silver stated that the Chestertown Historic District Commission takes its authority from Chapter 93 of the Code of the Town of Chestertown and operates under the Historic District Design Guidelines that were adopted by the Mayor and Council of Chestertown on October 7, 2002 and revised March 7, 2012.
Ms. Silver asked if there were any additions or corrections to the minutes of the meeting of March 7, 2018. Mr. Gallo moved to approve the minutes of March 7, 2018 as submitted, was seconded by Mr. Bailey and carried unanimously.
There were two items on the Consent Calendar as follows:
BP2018-25 – Cooney/Allstate Building, 236 Cannon Street (Building B) – roof replacement.
BP2018-28 – Bradshaw, 117 Court Street – front porch light installation.
Ms. McGuire moved to approve BP2018-25 and BP2018-28 as submitted, as they were both in accordance with the Historic District Commission Guidelines. The motion was seconded by Mr. Gallo and carried unanimously.
The next item on the agenda was BP2018-05 from Wendy Culp for exterior renovations, demolition of the rear addition and new construction for property at 215 High Street. Mr. Daniel T. Campbell (architect) presented for the applicant. Ms. Silver read the application into the record along with recommendations and motions made at the HDC meeting of February 2018.
Ms. Ritchie asked for clarification of where the demolition would begin in the rear and marked it on the drawings dated 4/4/18 for the file.
Mr. Campbell stated that he explained at the February meeting that the structural engineer found the 16' x 60' rear addition in poor shape with a bad foundation of brick piers. The rear portion was 16' wide by 60' long. He said that when the 16' wide addition was removed it would be replaced with a 20' wide addition. Mr. Campbell stated that the original part of the building has a steeper gabled roof with two dormered windows on the front, the imprint of which is still seen in the 3rd floor attic.
Mr. Campbell stated that the front façade of the building was changed in 1960 and the plan was to reconstruct the original façade. He said that the rear addition could be seen from the front but would be painted in a muted color so it did not detract from the front façade restoration.
Ms. McGuire stated that the 1950s addition was brick but was not original to the building; therefore, painting the unpainted brick in this instance would be allowable. Mr. de Mooy agreed, stating that the non-contributing addition was being removed from a contributing building to return it to its historic appearance. The painted brick would be a residual piece of the non-contributing addition.
Ms. Ritchie asked how much room would be between the buildings if the addition went from 16' wide to 20' wide. Mr. Campbell stated that there would be at least 3½' between the buildings, noting that this is traditionally an alley and there are some mechanicals placed there.
Ms. Ritchie asked if and by how much the impervious surface would be increased. Mr. de Mooy stated that there would be no change to impervious surface because the entire property is currently impervious.
Ms. McGuire asked about materials for the front façade. Mr. Campbell stated that the front façade would match almost exactly in look and material to what was original, noting that he had photos to use for examples. He said that the 5" wood clapboard is still in place, there would be wood shutters with louvers, corbels under the roof overhang, arched dormers, tin imitation shingles, and the windows and trim would be duplicated. The brick parapet on the adjacent structure would remain visible.
Mr. Campbell stated that the floor structure in the front portion of the building was in such bad condition that he would remove it and use it as an opportunity to lower it for ADA compliance.
Mr. Campbell stated that there would be an apartment and a business space planned for the second floor. He said that the client would like the option of putting in a roof deck on the rear second floor (enclosed with a screen porch), noting that he nestled the porch into the roof so it was not as visible as it would be if on the top of the roof.
Ms. McGuire stated that the applicant would have to return with samples of materials. Mr. Campbell agreed, stating that the construction documents will also have much more detail to show the Commission.
Mr. Bailey moved to approve demolition of the rear addition as described in the application and shown on drawings marked H2 (dated 4/4/18) as it was in keeping with the Design Guidelines, with the understanding that archaeological monitoring will take place during demolition with a report submitted to the Commission upon completion. The motion was seconded by Mr. Gallo and carried unanimously.
Ms. McGuire moved to approve the reconstruction of the front portion of the building with details as outlined on drawings marked H2 (dated 4/4/18) as it was in keeping with Historic District Design Guidelines, contingent upon receiving and approving cut sheets of proposed materials, was seconded by Ms. Ritchie and carried unanimously.
Ms. Ritchie moved to approve the new construction, including the additional width of the building from 16' to 20' at the rear end of the building, consistent with drawings submitted H1 and H2 (dated 4/4/18) and contingent upon presentation and approval of a materials list, was seconded by Ms. McGuire and carried unanimously.
The next item on the agenda was BP2018-06 from Lynn Porter at 225 Calvert Street for demolition and new construction of a single-story residence. Ms. Silver read the application into the record. Mr. Jay Silcox was present for the application.
Ms. Silver stated that it was determined in the February 2018 meeting that the existing house could not be salvaged but a motion for demolition was not made. Ms. Silver stated that a new house design was submitted this month for the Commission to consider.
Mr. Silcox stated that this was a partially ready set of construction drawings but materials have not been decided to date. The elevation was the property owner's primary concern at this time.
Ms. Silver stated that she photographed houses along Calvert Street and Kent Street and said that there was a large variety of architecture to choose from. She said that Craftsman style houses not unlike the proposed house could be found on Kent Street.
Mr. Silcox stated that the lot was 50' wide by 112' long and there were two lots to the parcel. He said that at a surveyor would complete a plan showing the lot limits and how the house would be situated on the lot. He said that the proposed house style was single-story, 32' wide by 58' long. He said that the length of the existing house was similar although it was narrower.
Ms. McGuire asked what setbacks were required on Calvert Street for new houses. Mr. de Mooy stated that there was no front yard setback requirement for this block of Calvert Street. Mr. Silcox stated that the he thought the side yard setbacks were 6' but he would like to install a driveway and wanted to see how that worked once the site survey was complete. Mr. de Mooy stated that a variance could be sought for setbacks if necessary.
Ms. Ritchie asked if the house would be similar in size to the neighboring brick rancher. Mr. Silcox stated that he thought it was similar. Mr. de Mooy stated that the housing styles on Calvert Street were so widely varied that he did not think the rhythm of the street would be interrupted in any way by the proposed house.
Ms. McGuire stated that she was not comfortable approving the new construction until she was aware of the setbacks. Mr. Silcox stated that the new construction would be narrower than the rancher next door.
Mr. Gallo stated that the house had to be torn down even if the structure proposed was not approved; adding that he did not think an empty lot was good for the neighborhood. He said that there was nothing in this application that was not appropriate to the area.
Mr. Gallo moved to approve the demolition of the structure at 225 Calvert Street, was seconded by Mr. Bailey and carried unanimously.
Mr. Gallo moved to approve the proposed new construction for 225 Calvert Street as presented to the Commission with the understanding that the applicant will return with cut sheets of all materials for the structure, was seconded by Mr. Bailey and carried with four in favor, Ms. McGuire opposed.
The last item on the agenda was BP2018-27 from Yerkes Construction and homeowners, Sally Findlay and Gene Nelson, for exterior renovations at 209 N. Water Street. Mr. Jay Yerkes of Yerkes Construction was present for the application.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the front porch is not in good shape, with substantial rot and a buckling beam. He said that he would like to salvage the beam in order to save the roof by installing temporary diagonal supports in order to inspect the beam and splice if needed. The columns were completely rotted. Ms. Silver stated that she visited the property and can attest to the rot on the porch.
Mr. Yerkes stated that he hoped to be able to support the roof while removing the columns, railing and decking. He would then sister the structure with new pressure treated joists and replace the decking, railing and posts.
Mr. Yerkes stated that he was proposing to use an extruded synthetic material for the new decking. He said that he read the Design Guidelines and it was clear that materials should be painted wood. The Guidelines do not say wood is imperative.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the applicants want to use a synthetic material because it does not have to be maintained and the existing wood decking is slippery. The proposed columns and railings were also an extruded material, but once it is painted it looks just like painted wood. Specifications were included in the plans and the columns would be identical in appearance to the existing tapered columns.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the scale of the materials proposed is appropriate, the only difference being that the materials are not wood. Ms. McGuire asked about using IPE, similar to what the neighbors used on their porch. Mr. Yerkes stated that the applicants did not want IPE or mahogany as they were trying to stay away from a natural wood because they wanted a painted finish.
Ms. Silver read through the Design Guidelines on porches. She said that the Commission would have to address the issue of new materials because they are constantly changing and improving in their appearance. Ms. McGuire stated that the front façade was always going to be the front façade and this was an important house in the Historic District.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the material proposed for the decking was shapeable, solid, slip-resistant and would last a very long time as it is not prone to rot. Ms. Silver stated that the Commission had to be cautious in setting a precedent.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the applicants were also requesting changes to the rear of the house (riverside). He said that the owner has a woodworking shop under the deck on the rear of the house and would like to waterproof the decking above the sunroom so that the shop area remains dry. There will be a bump out created to give him the length he requires in order to work on rowing skulls. The existing stairs are next to a tight property line and the stairs were relocated and tucked into the width of the existing deck.
Mr. Bailey asked if the side decking would be removed. Mr. Yerkes stated that the side decking would be removed and doors on the side of the house were non-functional. Mr. Yerkes stated that the doors below the deck would be wood and were proposed with divided lights. Ms. McGuire stated that she thought the divided lights were jarring and should be single pane to match the rest of the house.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the material he was proposing for the deck was an extruded fiberglass with rubber weather stripping in the grooves which made it waterproof. Mr. Yerkes added that this deck was rotting even though it was made of mahogany. Mr. Yerkes stated that he was proposing the same posts and railings he proposed for the front of the house, noting that those in place are not original.
Mr. Yerkes stated that each door was approximately 3' so the windows would be approximately 42". Ms. McGuire stated that the divided light windows on the basement doors bothered her. She asked if those doors were set in or would they be flush with the decking. Mr. Yerkes stated that there would be a small setback.
Mr. Yerkes stated that the roof on the sunroom porch was a failing rubber roof. He said that the roof will be replaced and then a level structure with decking will go over it so it can actually be used as a deck.
Ms. Ritchie moved to approve the portion of BP2018-27 request to replace the roof and deck on the upper waterside balcony as submitted, as it was in keeping with the Design Guidelines, was seconded by Ms. McGuire and carried unanimously.
Ms. McGuire moved to approve the portion of BP2018-27 for a new design of the back deck, including the new design of the stairway, doors to the basement with windows to be undivided or two-over-two to keep with the other windows on the house, and that the materials Harvest Collection Azek Slate Gray decking, railing and balustrades, all to be painted, to be permitted as presented. The motion was seconded by Ms. Ritchie and carried unanimously.
Ms. Silver stated that the Commission now had to discuss the front porch. Mr. Yerkes stated that nobody would know the difference if the Commission allowed the proposed columns, railings or balustrades because it looked like painted wood once finished. He said that the decking is artificial but the applicant was concerned about the slickness of the painted porch and said that he would be happy to find out if a product was available without the grain.
Ms. McGuire stated that the Commission has denied siding with an artificial grain and did not think it was appropriate on a front porch. She asked if it could be painted. Mr. Yerkes stated that it was a paintable product but would not hold up to foot traffic and the paint would wear off.
Ms. McGuire stated that she was concerned about setting a precedent, noting that this was an example of a period house where the front façade was tremendously important. She said that in a historic area you can tell where the artificial materials were used, particularly if paint can't be applied.
Mr. Yerkes stated that this was a topic to address because these materials were going to continue to be developed and people will want to use them. Ms. McGuire asked what the point of having a Historic District was if they can't keep materials consistent with the period of the building. She said that the back of a house was different than a major façade on an important street in the Historic District.
Mr. Yerkes asked if the synthetic paintable material would be permitted for the columns and the railings. He said that he thought a painted finish would look better and would suggest Douglas Fir to the homeowners.
Ms. McGuire asked if he had a sample of what the railings and columns would look like when finished. She said that she thought it would look artificial because she never saw artificial material that looked like wood. Mr. Yerkes stated that he thinks she probably has seen this and that it was so realistic that she would have been fooled into thinking it was wood.
Mr. Yerkes stated that he has a reputation to defend in Chestertown, known as a person with expertise in historic renovations. He said that he gave his testimony on how he felt about this material and he said that if it was not going to look like wood he would not have proposed it. He said that this was a structural material unlike the vinyl materials the Commission may have seen in other applications.
Ms. Ritchie stated that the proposed decking did not look like wood. She said that she would like to see what the other extruded fiberglass materials looked like after it was painted before they made a decision on the front porch project. Mr. Yerkes stated that he could return with a sample at the next meeting. Ms. Silver stated that she would welcome some examples that she could look at around Town with those materials. Mr. Yerkes stated that he would try to find some examples and send the addresses, noting that he used it on Talbot Street in Easton.
Ms. Ritchie stated that the artificial columns were permitted on Cannon Street in an arts-and-crafts style building, but this was a contributing structure.
Ms. Silver stated that if Mr. Yerkes could educate the Commission more on the product with samples it would be appreciated. He asked if the front porch could be tabled for next month. Ms. McGuire moved to table the front porch section of the house for the May 2018 HDC meeting, was seconded by Mr. Bailey and carried unanimously.
Ms. Ritchie asked when the Commission would hold a workshop on procedures. Ms. Silver stated that she would like the members of the Commission to send questions to her so that she can look into the specific issues before a workshop is scheduled. Ms. Ritchie asked stated that everyone should read the Historic District Rules of Procedure and the Design Guidelines.
There being no further business, Ms. McGuire moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m., was seconded by Mr. Bailey and carried unanimously.
Jennifer Mulligan Alexa Silver
Town Clerk Chair
Last modified: May 3, 2018


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Visiting Committee
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Partner with Mechanical Engineering
METRICS Magazine
Desai Named ASME Fellow
Jaydev Desai
ASME Fellow
Department of Mechanical Engineering Professor Jaydev Desai was named an American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Fellow.
Desai is a member of the University of Maryland Robotics Center, Director of the Robotics, Automation and Medical Systems (RAMS) Laboratory and holds a joint appointment with the Institute for Systems Research. Prior to joining UMCP, he was an Associate Professor at Drexel University and served as their director of the Program for Robotics, Intelligent Sensing and Mechatronics (PRISM) Laboratory. He completed his undergraduate studies at the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, India and received his M.A. in Mathematics and both an M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics from the University of Pennsylvania.
In addition to becoming an ASME Fellow, Desai recently became the Founding Editor in Chief of the Journal of Medical Robotics Research (JMRR), as well as the Editor in Chief of the multi-volume Major Reference Work on "Encyclopedia of Medical Robotics." which will have 4 volumes entitled "Image-guided Interventions," "Minimally Invasive Surgical Robotics," "Rehabilitation Robotics" and "Micro and Nano Robotics in Medicine."
Desai is the fourth Department of Mechanical Engineering faculty member named an ASME Fellow this year, joining colleagues Jeong H. Kim Professor Abhijit Dasgupta, Associate Dean William Fourney and Research Professor Yunho Hwang.
The ASME Committee of Past Presidents confers Fellow grade memberships on worthy candidates to recognize their outstanding engineering achievements. Nominated by ASME Members and Fellows, an ASME Member has to have 10 or more years of active practice and at least 10 years of active corporate membership in ASME.
Stories / June 2, 2015
Alum Sagar Chowdhury wins ASME CIE Best Dissertation Award
Stories / August 5, 2013
Professor Peter Sandborn Elected ASME Fellow
Stories / May 2, 2011
Jaydev Desai wins seed grant for diagnostic robotic system
Stories / Jan 27, 2023
Prosthetics: A Better Fit
Stories / Dec 16, 2022
Fall 2022 Design Day Winners Announced
Shuttle service between Kim Building and SMART Building/MATRIX...
Stories / Dec 6, 2022
Student Team Wins Emerging Tech Challenge
Agonafer Honored by ASME
The ECDA Inducts Seven Mechanical Engineering Alumni
Stories / Nov 21, 2022
Single-Step Soft Robotics Manufacturing: What's Next?
Search Open for Assistant Professor
Search Open for UMD Assistant/Associate Professor
Han Becomes Editor-in-Chief of Microelectronics Reliability


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Google Launching AdWords Business Credit Card To Boost SMB Search Ad Spend, Starting First In UK, Extending To U.S.
When small businesses need to make investments in IT or other operations, it's often the companies selling them the goods that help with financing solutions. Now it looks like Google is using that model to help drive more dollars to AdWords search advertising. Google says that from Monday it is launching a new service in the UK, AdWords Business Credit, which offers credit to companies specifically in the SMB sector to boost their online ad spend with the company.
This is not the first time that Google has offered credit to drive more AdWords investment — it's been running a pilot with 1,400 companies in the U.S. for a year. Before that Google had run special offers giving people credits for more AdWords spend each time they invested in AdWords. This, however, is the first full commercial service of this kind.
The track record in the U.S. has been positive enough to see the company moving to full launches: In a blog post, Brent Callinicos, VP Treasurer for Google, notes that 74 percent of those in the U.S. pilot now use AdWords Business Credit as their "primary form of AdWords payment."
Google will be following the UK launch with more invitations to users in the U.S. ahead of a full launch there, as well.
The UK launch is being run with Barclaycard in the UK and Comenity Capital Bank in the U.S. — both MasterCard-based cards.
In its Q2 earnings, Google noted that revenues, which it derives primarily from advertising, were $10.96 billion, a 21 percent increase over the year before. Revenues from the UK were $1.18 billion, or 11 percent of Google's revenues in Q2. That's level with the year before, and it could be that Google is going for a two-sided strategy here: both increasing business in the UK market, as well as coming up with more aggressive solutions for building up its ad business in a sector that has perhaps been hardest hit in the economic downturn.
While Amazon has lately been offering credit to its merchant partners in the form of Amazon Capital Services, Google is clear to note that AdWords Business Credit is only for AdWords — no other purchases are allowed.
Interest rates in the UK will be variable at 11.9 percent APR Representative, while the U.S. will be at 8.99 percent, as it has been in the pilot. Neither card will have annual fees, Google notes. This is lower than basic credit card rates, but given that the spend on these cards will all be going to Google, it's a lucrative credit bet for the company. "You can assume we're not doing this to lose money," Callinicos said in an interview in the FT. He also noted, though, that this is not seen as a "profit center" for Google in the bigger scheme of things.


There were 6 Seekers in the Generation 1 toyline, 3 classic-type and 3 "coneheads" that had different kinds of wings.
Story over? ...not quite. We've seen 4 prototypes for unproduced G2 Seekers that seem to have been slated for G2's 4th year had it not been canceled. And unlike Starscream and Ramjet they're new characters.


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Kerins O'Rahilly's are a Gaelic Athletic Association club from Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland. They are based in the Strand Road area of the town. They are in Division 1 of the county league which they won in 2006, and compete in the County Championship.

History
The club was founded in 1927 and was named for The O'Rahilly (1875–1916), a Kerryman killed in the Easter Rising, and Charlie Kerins (1918–1944) of the later IRA, executed during the Second World War.

Notable players

Achievements
 Kerry Senior Football Championship Winners (6) 1933, 1939, 1953, 1954, 1957, 2002
 Munster Senior Club Football Championship Winners (1) 2022
 Kerry Club Football Championship Winners (3) 2009, 2010, 2022
 Kerry County League Div 1: Winners (4) 1985, 1999, 2006, 2013
 Kerry Under-21 Football Championship: Winners (1) 2015
 Kerry Under 21 Club Championship Winners (2) 2013, 2009
 Kerry Minor Football Championship Winners (1) 2006
 Kerry Minor County League Division 1 Winners (2) 2007, 2008

References

External links
Official Kerins O'Rahilly's GAA Club website

Gaelic games clubs in County Kerry
Gaelic football clubs in County Kerry
Sport in Tralee

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
6 January 2022 / No Comments
As we turn into the long drive I glance across at the Drummossie Moor and catch a glimpse of the tall grasslands on the battlefield to my right. It's mid-September, we're travelling around Scotland in our motorhome and the weather has been warm and sunny the past 3 weeks. Today we're visiting one of National Trust Scotland's most popular sites, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre.
At the end of the neat lawned drive we find a large car park, thankfully with plenty of spaces. We arrived for opening time to get ahead of the crowds and find ourselves in good company. There were 3 motorhomes already parked up along the back of the car park. We pull in and neatly line up Lexi van to join the other motorhomes for the morning whilst we explore and learn more about the brutal history of this battle ground.
Sadly, the visitor centre isn't dog-friendly so I opted to take our two spaniels for a walk around the battlefield whilst Dave went to explore the visitor centre. We were soon immersed in the history of this astonishing and tragic event. If you enjoy learning about Britains history then I'd highly recommend adding a visit to Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre to your Scotland Road Trip or holiday plans. Continue reading for a brief insight into the Jacobites, the battle of Culloden as well as useful visitor information to help you plan your own trip to this National Trust Scotland site.
About the Battle of Culloden
On the 16th April 1746 one of the UK's most brutal battles took place at Culloden in the Scottish Highlands. Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army went into battle against the Duke of Cumberland and his redcoats at Culloden near Inverness. In less than an hour around 1,600 men were killed, 1,500 of them were Jacobites!
Who were the Jacobites?
A Jacobite was a supporter of the exiled Stuart King James II. Jacobites were a largely 17th- and 18th-century movement that supported the restoration of the senior line of the House of Stuart to the British throne. The name is derived from Jacobus, the Latin version of James.
The 1745 Jacobite Rebellion was a turning point in British history. Believing the British throne to be his birthright, Charles Edward Stuart, aka 'Bonnie Prince Charlie', planned to invade Great Britain along with his Jacobite followers and remove the Hanoverian George II.
Visiting Culloden Battlefield
The Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre is a popular National Trust Scotland site. Inside the visitor centre there's plenty to see and do, including a 360-degree battle immersion theatre. Read the true story of the 1745 Rising, from both the Jacobite and Government perspectives. There are weapons and artefacts on display in the museum too. You can also look out over the battlefield from the roof garden on top of the visitor centre. The visitor centre also has a large gift shop stocking beautiful Scottish products as well as a cafe for snacks and refreshments.
Just outside the visitor centre take a walk across the field towards Leanach Cottage. This was used as a field hospital immediately after the battle of Culloden.
Leanach Cottage field hospital following the Culloden Battle.
Continue on your walk around the wild moor, which the National Trust care for trying to keep it how it might have looked in 1746 with grassland and Higland Cows grazing. There are path's that lead you around the battlefield, with flags representing the frontlines of both armies (red flags for the government army and blue flags for the Jacobites). A 6m high Memorial Cairnstands in the centre of the battlefield so that you can appreciate the scale of the battlefield.
Whilst walking around the Culloden battlefield you will see graves of the fallen soldiers as well as Clan Stones dedicated to the family clan members who died during the battle. This is a place of pilgrimage for people from Scotland as well as for visitors from around the world. It was very quiet and humbling walking around the battlefield site. When walking past people I smiled but we all remained silent not wanting to disturb the lasting resting place of so many men.
Clan Memorial Stones Culloden Battlefield
Grave Stone fallen soldiers Culloden Battlefield
How To Find Culloden
Culloden is 5 miles east of Inverness, off the A9/B9006. Follow the brown signs to Culloden. (IV2 5EU)
National Trust Scotland Membership
During our visit to Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre we stayed at Culloden Moor Motorhome Club Site. A well kept, clean campsite with friendly staff. For dog owners this site is a great location as it's surrounded by forests and trails for you and your dog to explore. The campsite is 1.5 miles from the Culloden Battlefield site and 6 miles from the city of Inverness. Well worth booking a couple of days here during your Scotland Road trip
Planning your Scotland Road Trip? Then don't miss all of my Scotland Road Trip series… START HERE
There is a large car park on site with plenty of Motorhome parking available.
For history fans I would recommend allowing 2+ hours for your visit to the Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre.
Drones are not allowed over the battlefield.
National Trust Culloden website
National Trust 275th Anniversary film series
National Trust Podcast series: The Road To Culloden – Written by volunteers at Culloden visitor centre
Finally, I hope you've enjoyed reading about a visit to Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre. If you enjoy history then I'd highly recommend visiting this National Trust Scotland site.
A Coastal Walk To Dunnottar Castle
Loch An Eilean – Voted Britain's Favourite Picnic Spot
If you want to read more Touring Tales articles? Visit my Travel articles section
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Treat Yourself At The National Trust Gift Shop
Ballachulish Loch Leven
Rothiemurchus & Loch An Eilein


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text:
package org.gradle.api.internal.notations;

import org.gradle.api.artifacts.SelfResolvingDependency;
import org.gradle.api.file.FileCollection;
import org.gradle.api.internal.artifacts.dependencies.DefaultSelfResolvingDependency;
import org.gradle.internal.exceptions.DiagnosticsVisitor;
import org.gradle.internal.reflect.Instantiator;
import org.gradle.internal.typeconversion.NotationConvertResult;
import org.gradle.internal.typeconversion.NotationConverter;
import org.gradle.internal.typeconversion.TypeConversionException;

public class DependencyFilesNotationConverter implements NotationConverter<FileCollection, SelfResolvingDependency> {
    private final Instantiator instantiator;

    public DependencyFilesNotationConverter(Instantiator instantiator) {
        this.instantiator = instantiator;
    }

    @Override
    public void describe(DiagnosticsVisitor visitor) {
        visitor.candidate("FileCollections").example("files('some.jar', 'someOther.jar')");
    }

    public void convert(FileCollection notation, NotationConvertResult<? super SelfResolvingDependency> result) throws TypeConversionException {
        result.converted(instantiator.newInstance(DefaultSelfResolvingDependency.class, notation));
    }
}


text:
On Writing Poetry.
lifestyle personal poetry thoughts words writer writing
If you follow me on Instagram, you may know I write poetry, which I used to post. Somewhere along the lines, imposter syndrome hit, and I became embarrassed of that vulnerability, so I deleted it from my feed, and like that, it went back to being my secret habit.
It's something which carries both shame and pride for me. It's often a source of insecurity, it feels like an uncool hobby, and the writing tends to be about my feelings, which although they matter, it can be pretty intense to be so raw with them. It feels cringe.
I've always loved writing poetry, despite never being particularly talented at it. I'm an over-thinker, an avid reader and a diary keeper, writing it feels natural, it slots into who I am.
I remember writing a poem with my auntie and uncle when I was younger, I think for a school project and enjoying playing with the words, laughing with them as we tried to create rhymes, and rearranged words. I remember the pride a felt when I figured the combination of those words which worked the best.
I wrote a poem in primary school which got published in a local church book, and that was the first time I'd done something which had got recognised. I was so proud.
Once I made a tumblr, with the username Iwillbecomeawriter, where I posted poetry, but soon deleted it due to insecurity.
There have been times my head has felt like it's exploding and my heart breaking, and finding a tangible, maybe beautiful way to put that on to paper, made it easier to cope. Despite being dreadful at spelling, I don't remember a time I wasn't fascinated with words and how we string them together. How they can carry weight and how the right combination of them, can make a person feel. Words can evoke emotion which you didn't even know was there.
I'm usually quite a closed person. I'm introverted, shy and I struggle to talk out loud about my feelings, it's not how I communicate, speaking doesn't always work for me, I stutter, and hold back, sometimes I simply can't seem to make the words move from my mind to something which comes out of my mouth. But writing down nonsense, and trying to make it something, trying to untangle how I feel amongst the words, that's what works for me.
I don't think I'm good at writing, but I long to be. I'm a great believer in practice so each day this month I'm writing a poem, whether I feel like it or not, and I'm posting it to this Instagram, whether I think it's good or not because I want to push myself. I want to teach myself to be better with words, I want to have the ability to make people feel, and I want to take in all that I feel.
It's cringe for sure, it's embarrassing, writing poetry. But some pretty cool people do it too, and I've felt nothing for than admiration for those people. Plus I'd be doing it whether I shared it or not, so it's about time I rediscovered that pride I had as a child when my poetry was published for others to see.
Just because I'm out of love, that doesn't mean love is lacking.
Realistic March Goals.
February Round Up and Iphone Photos.


text:
Tribe Front Office Volunteers with Sand Creek Fourth Graders
Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.
INDIANAPOLIS – Today the Indianapolis Indians spent the day with the fourth graders of Sand Creek Elementary School. The Tribe front office volunteered their time teaching Junior Achievement's JA In A Day curriculum on owning and operating a business.
Indianapolis Indians volunteers taught Junior Achievement's hands-on, interactive curriculum to fourth grade students about personal finance, career paths, entrepreneurship and employability skills. A total of six classrooms participated from Sand Creek Elementary, impacting more than 120 students.
"The Indianapolis Indians fully support Junior Achievement's mission of preparing Central Indiana youth for a future career, no matter the path," said Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. "There's nothing more important than an education. We're committed to supporting the children in our community by volunteering and providing resources to help them grow into our leaders of tomorrow."
"JA is thrilled to have established a strong partnership with the Indianapolis Indians to educate and inspire students to own their future success. This JA Day event is an exciting opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of these young students in a single day," said Jennifer Burk, JA's President and CEO.
Indianapolis Indians season tickets, multi-game plans and tickets for groups are now available. Single-game tickets go on sale Friday, February 28 at 10 AM.
To purchase, visit IndyIndians.com or call the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545.
About the Indianapolis Indians
The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends and the community through the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 10 seasons. In 2018, the organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places to Work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.
Tagged as : Children's Health and Development, Education/Teacher Support, Indiana, Indianapolis Indians, International League, Junior Achievement, Pittsburgh Pirates, Volunteering { }
Andy Shea and Lexington Legends to receive prestigious distinguished philanthropist award
WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – (November 7, 2017) – The Association of Fundraising Professionals – Bluegrass Chapter presents the Distinguished Philanthropist Award to an individual, corporation, or foundation that has made a significant contribution to our community through their acts of kindness and charitable giving. "Over the years, only a select few have received this special recognition and this year's recipient is definitely worthy of this honor," said Patrick Robinson, AFP President.
On Friday, November 10, during the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon at the Marriott Griffin Gate, Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends will receive the 2017 Distinguished Philanthropist award.
In 2017, the Legends donated over $1.1 million to hundreds of charitable organizations in eastern and central Kentucky. One hundred percent of the Legends staff is currently involved in the community outside of the workplace.
President/CEO Andy Shea is the driving force behind all of the Legends' community initiatives and philanthropic accomplishments. He sets an example of empathy, kindness and selflessness for everyone he meets and encourages others to utilize their unique talents and passions in order to serve others.
Shea serves on the boards for LexArts and Junior Achievement. He has built relationships with 10 little brothers through Big Brothers Big Sisters, three of whom were groomsmen in his wedding this past October. He was also the 2013 and 2015 champion of Dancing With The Lexington Stars, which supports the Rotary Club Endowment Fund and Surgery on Sundays. In 2016, Andy won the American Diabetes Association's Kiss-A-Pig Campaign Individual Winner award for his fundraising efforts towards curing and preventing diabetes. This year, he was humbled to provide the lead gift towards Midway University's new baseball stadium, which will increase the university's athletic merit and offer Midway student-athletes the opportunity to compete in state-of-the-art collegiate facilities for the first time.
"It's clear that Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends make a huge impact in our community," adds Robinson. "AFP – Bluegrass Chapter is pleased to give this prestigious award to both an individual and a team who are touching many lives through their philanthropy."
(The National Philanthropy Luncheon will be held on Friday, November 10, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington. The Distinguished Philanthropist Award will be presented between 12:45 p.m. and 1:15 p.m.)
For more information about the Legends, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, will return home to Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com
Tagged as : American Diabetes Association, Arts Appreciation, Awards, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Children's Health and Development, Education/Teacher Support, Junior Achievement, Kansas City Royals, Kentucky, Lexington Legends, South Atlantic League, Supporting the Community { }
Kernels season-long charity partners raise over $35,000
The Cedar Rapids Kernels partnered with three local companies during the 2014 season to raise over $35,000 for local charities through three different season-long promotions.
For the fifth consecutive season, The Transamerica Foundation has sponsored K's for Kids, where for every strikeout (or K) recorded by Kernels pitchers this season (home and away, plus playoff games) Transamerica donated $25 to Kids First Law Center for Childr
en of Divorce. This season, Kernel pitchers struck out 1,188 batters for a grand total of $29,700 for Kids First. This is the fifth consecutive season that Transamerica has sponsored the K's for Kids promotion and the highest pledge total to date.
"At Transamerica, we believe in supporting the communities in which we work and live. Since 1994, the Aegon Transamerica Foundation, through a combination of financial grants and the volunteer commitment of our employees, has supported a wide variety of non-profit organizations focused on the education, health and the well-being of community members" said Terrie Rethamel, VP of Specialized Operations with Transamerica. "Our $25 donation for every strikeout pitched by the Cedar Rapids Kernels supports the good work of the Kids First Law Center as they help children and their families through difficult circumstances. We appreciate all that they do to assist families, and consequently, our entire community."
CarePro Health Services sponsored Plating for Plates, where for every run scored by the Kernels (home and away plus playoffs) CarePro donated $5 to Horizons Meals On Wheels, a program that delivers hot, nutritious meals to local homebound citizens. This season, the Kernels scored 643 runs and that means that CarePro Health Services donated $3,215 or 643 plates of food, to Meals on Wheels. This is the seventh consecutive season that CarePro Health Services has sponsored Plating for Plates.
"It has been a privilege for CarePro Health Services to support the Horizons Meals on Wheels program over the past seven Kernels seasons" said Chris Nichols, Marketing Director at CarePro Health Services. "The Plating for Plates program has been a fun way to be able to support the community and has provided thousands of meals to area community members."
For the fourth consecutive season, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance have partnered to make a donation to Junior Achievement for every home run the Kernels hit at Perfect Game Field this season. In 2014, the Kernels hit 42 home runs and Millhiser Smith and West Bend Insurance donated $2,500 to Junior Achievement.
"One of our fundamental philosophies at Millhiser Smith is to reciprocate the support we receive from Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities – this is why we chose to support Junior Achievement" said Jessica Rhatigan, Risk Consultant with Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc.. "Their focus is on educating our children in preparation for a successful future and we've been honored to contribute to their efforts."
These three companies combined to raise $35,415 for local non-profits in our community this season. The Kernels would like to thank The Transamerica Foundation, CarePro Health Services, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance for their continued support of these local charity programs.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.
Tagged as : Cedar Rapids Kernels, Children's Health and Development, Family Relief/Resources, Fundraising Opportunities, Iowa, Junior Achievement, Meals on Wheels, Midwest League, Minnesota Twins { }
Legends announce donations of $965,012 for 2010
The Lexington Legends announced donations for 2010 totaling $965,012 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky. The Ivy Walls Charitable Giving Foundation Fund at Bluegrass Community Foundation, in cooperation with the Legends and business sponsors, presented checks to organization representatives today in the Maker's Mark Club at Applebee's Park.
In its 10-year history, the Legends organization has donated more than $9 million to the region.
"This is truly one of our biggest events of the year in terms of importance," said Legends General Manager Andy Shea. "It's a way to celebrate the good work done by these organizations. We're pleased to support them in their efforts."
"Perhaps the most important thing we do is using the enormous success and popularity of the Lexington Legends to be able to make our communities better," said Legends President and CEO Alan Stein. "We could not be more proud of our community outreach programs and our fans and sponsors who make them possible."
Ivy Walls Management is a Lexington-based organization that manages the operation of minor league baseball teams, including the Legends.
Organizations receiving funds were:
–The Makenna Foundation. Established in 2001 in memory of Makenna David, who died of a rare lung disease in 1998, the Makenna Foundation has raised more than $1.2 million for the Kentucky Children's Hospital. The Legends' Charity Ball Toss event, sponsored by Copy Express, generates funds for general support of the Makenna Foundation.
–Big Brothers Big Sisters. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States, and has worked for more than a century to develop positive relationships that have a lasting impact on young people. Raising Cane's donated $25 to BBBS for every Legends win at Applebee's Park. The Legends also worked with LM Communications to plan and present a "radiothon" to raise funds for BBBS.
–The Markey Cancer Foundation. The Legends' campaign to "strike out breast cancer," sponsored by ADI, provides five dollars for each strikeout recorded by Lexington pitchers during home games. The fight against breast cancer is also supported by the Legends' Breast Cancer Brunch and the sale of pink game jerseys, also sponsored by ADI.
–Kentucky Pink Connection. The Breast Cancer Brunch and the sale of pink game jerseys also benefit the Kentucky Pink Connection program, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing and/or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
–Junior Achievement. Donations were made to JA from
the proceeds of the Brewgrass Festival, a beer-tasting and entertainment event held at Applebee's Park in May. A bowl-a-thon also raised funds for JA, and several Legends employees volunteered and taught classes in the JA program.
-St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program. The sale of regular game jerseys worn by Legends' players provides general support for the program, which provides one- and two-year scholarships to deserving nursing students at area colleges and universities.
–Lexington Humane Society. Sponsored by IncrediPet, the Legends held two "Bark in the Park" nights during the 2010 season. After making a donation to the Humane Society as an "admission" charge, fans could bring their dogs to the Legends game on "Bark in the Park" nights. Courtesy Acura donates to the Humane Society based on walks to Legends batters. Also, portions of proceeds from vendors who set up exhibits at Applebee's Park on those nights went to the Humane Society.
-The Boy Scouts of America Bluegrass Council. Sponsored by Windstream, a $25 donation is made to the Boy Scouts for every double or triple by a Legends player during home games.
–Eternal Valor. The Eternal Valor Foundation's mission is to facilitate and assist in the creation and management of scholarships, charities and events in order to honor the memory of deceased veterans. On Military Appreciation Night, the Legends sold fatigue jerseys to support Eternal Valor.
-"Guns 'n' Hoses" softball game at Applebee's Park. Sponsored by Gall's, the game matches Lexington police officers against firefighters. In 2010, proceeds went to the family of Lexington police officer Bryan J. Durman, who died in the line of duty.
The Legends also make substantial in-kind donations throughout the year, including a long-standing relationship with United Way of the Bluegrass. Donors to the United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In the 2010 season, more than 44,000 box seat tickets were given to United Way donors.
Other in-kind projects were associated with Special Olympics, the walk to defeat ALS, the Kentucky Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery's Smokeless Tobacco Education program, and Hit the Books, a joint effort between the Legends and Chick-Fil-A to encourage Central Kentucky students to read.
Legends' Mascot, Big L, and General Manager, Andy Shea.
Tagged as : ALS Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America, Cancer Awareness, Charitable Foundations, Children's Health and Development, Community Benefit Report, Donations, Education/Teacher Support, Family Relief/Resources, Fundraising Opportunities, Health/Fitness, Houston Astros, Humane Society, Junior Achievement, Kentucky, Lexington Legends, Military & Veterans, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Reading Programs, Scholarships, South Atlantic League, Special Olympics, Supporting the Community, Ticket Donations, United Way, Women's Health { }
Legends Win 'We Care' Award
The Lexington Legends have won a 2010 Republic Bank We CARE Award for outstanding community service.
The We CARE (Community Activity Recognition Enterprise) awards give recognition and appreciation to local companies whose employees are actively involved in a variety of community service activities. The program was launched in 2006, and the Legends have been nominated for awards in each of the last three years.
Winners were announced Thursday night in a ceremony at the Griffin Gate Marriott. WLEX-TV news anchor Kevin Christopher served as master of ceremonies.
More than 50 nominations from organizations in seven categories met the We CARE criteria and were accepted for the awards competition. Organizations were judged on how they encourage employees to become involved in volunteer activities either during or after business hours. They were also evaluated on how they support community-based initiatives through philanthropic efforts and neighborhood assistance. Winners were selected by an independent panel of judges consisting of previous winners and community leaders.
The Legends, a class A minor league baseball affiliate of the Houston Astros, won in the category of entertainment and leisure. The Legends have provided in-kind donations of tickets, memorabilia and suites to more than 250 non-profit organizations in 2010. Legends employees participate in many fund-raising events, including the Polar Bear Plunge, Bowl for Kids Sake, the Diabetes Walk and others. Employees also participate in Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Junior Achievement.
"There are certain prestigious 'touch points' in a community," said Legends President and CEO Alan Stein. "For a company like the Lexington Legends, whose own mission statement emphasizes quality of life and making our communities better, the Republic Bank We Care Award is a very important acknowledgment that we're on the right track. It is a tremendous honor for our entire staff, and I particularly salute our General Manager, Andy Shea, for his continued leadership and commitment to community service, and our Director of Community Relations, Stephanie Fish, for her tireless efforts in this arena."
"The Republic Bank We CARE Awards have again brought to light the quality and variety of volunteer work done by so many companies in our community," said Bo Henry, Market President of Republic Bank.
"All of us at Republic Bank recognize the employees of the nominated companies, and the winning companies, for the community efforts they put forth that contribute so much to making this such a great place to live and raise our families," stated Steve Trager, Chairman and CEO of Republic Bank.
"I'm so proud of the way employees of Lexington area companies reach out into our neighborhoods and communities every day," added WLEX-TV general manager Pat Dalbey. "There's an obvious growing culture of caring that the Republic Bank We CARE Award is nurturing. I'm particularly impressed with the quality of the employee volunteer efforts made by this year's winning companies. Central Kentucky is indeed a warm, friendly, giving community and WLEX-TV is proud to be part of recognizing the wonderful spirit of giving represented by these awards."
Winning companies received a handmade glass sculpture award designed by Ken von Roenn of Kentucky's Architectural Glass Art, and WLEX-TV will produce and broadcast video vignettes highlighting each winning company.
(Left to Right) Bo Henry, Market President of Republic Bank with Legends Staff, Justin Ball, Stephanie Fish, Seth Poteat, Ty Cobb.
Tagged as : Awards, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Fundraising Opportunities, Habitat for Humanity, Houston Astros, Junior Achievement, Kentucky, Lexington Legends, South Atlantic League, Supporting the Community, Ticket Donations { }


We analyze the effect of negative monetary policy rates on banks, using detailed supervisory information from Switzerland. For identification, we compare changes in the behavior of banks that had different fractions of their central bank reserves exempt from negative rates. More affected banks reduce costly reserves and bond financing while maintaining non-negative deposit rates and larger deposit ratios. Higher fee and interest income successfully compensates for squeezed liability margins, but credit and interest rate risk increase. Portfolio rebalancing implies relatively more lending, also compared to an earlier rate cut within positive territory, and risk-taking reduces regulatory capital cushions and liquidity.
A negative interest rate on reserves is effectively a tax on the banking system. The rationale for adopting such policy in the context of a classic liquidity trap is its expansionary effect, via the reduction in the incentive to save. However, critics argue that the resulting distortion in the banking system may have adverse effects which outweigh the welfare gains from economic stimulus. This paper contributes to the debate by modelling the banking sector in accordance with the maturity-transformation framework of Diamond and Dybvig (1983). I show that, on the one hand, negative interest on reserves leads to financial disintermediation, which reduces the extent of maturity transformation below the first-best level; while, on the other hand, it is expansionary, as consumers save less overall. The paper's main finding is that, while in normal times taxing banks is inefficient, optimal monetary policy in the liquidity trap prescribes a strictly negative interest on reserves.


Children are not "one size fits all." Their school shouldn't be, either.
in specialized environments developed specifically for the children served.
An education at MIR is an investment in your child's best potential.
Rigorously trained teachers who are thoroughly versed in child development and teach accordingly.
Prepared environment designed specifically for the developmental stage of the child.
Mixed-age groups in which younger children learn from older children, and older children learn leadership and responsibility as mentors to the younger.
Freedom to choose work with appropriate guidance from the teachers. In a Montessori classroom, children actively participate in deciding what their focus of learning will be each day.
Uninterrupted work periods of 2-3 hours to allow children to focus on their learning.
Customized learning at the individual and group level, based on the developmental stage of the child.